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Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels are made of thin slivers of silicon coated in plastic and

sandwiched between layers of glass. When sunlight hits the panel, direct current (DC) electricity is produced. This DC current then passes through an inverter which converts it into conventional 240 volts AC to be used by your household appliances or fed back into the grid.

Solar power is available in grid connected and off grid (stand alone) systems. In urban areas, households and other buildings can remain connected to the electricity grid and don’t require any battery storage. On a cloudy day, at night or if you use more power than you generate, you automatlically draw power from the grid. If your system produces more electricity than you need, the surplus is fed into the grid for others to consume.

A solar panel system can be installed to most single and double story houses. All you need is roof space with a generally northerly aspect and full sun throughout the year.

Some buildings also require a frame to attach the panels at the most appropriate angle to capture sunlight. Once the system is established it usually requires little or no maintenance other than the occasional check and clearing of panels.

The technology does not provide all of the characteristics necessary for a consistent electricity supply. Primary limitations on complete residential solar supply include the ability to provide energy at all times; output can fall rapidly during cloudy weather and no electricity is provided during evening hours.

Employing a combination of energy efficiency and renewable energy such as solar can minimize the environmental impact of electricity use while maintaining reliability.